French chateau stay to benefit historical society in South Berwick

Tuesday

Oct 9, 2012 at 3:15 AM

SOUTH BERWICK, Maine — A museum in France is assisting the Counting House Museum’s fundraiser by providing a six-day stay for two on the grounds of its 900-year-old chateau, located four miles from Cannes. The accommodations will be auctioned at the upcoming Counting House benefit.

“We are so fortunate to be able to offer this fabulous vacation stay to benefit a local history museum,” said organizer Vicky Whitney of the Old Berwick Historical Society based in South Berwick Maine.

The five-night stay at Château de La Napoule will be auctioned at the society’s 1960s Dance to be held Saturday, Nov. 3 at the American Legion in Rollinsford, N.H., starting at 7:30 p.m. Valued at $3,500, the vacation stay will be auctioned live, and there is a minimum bid of $1,500.

Absentee bidding is available by calling 603-828-4169 or writing obhsauction@gmail.com.

Dozens of other items will be offered at a silent auction at the event as well.

The La Napoule Foundation operates an artists’ residency program at the Château de La Napoule, where exhibitions, readings, concerts, performances, seminars and conferences are held throughout the year.

The private museum compound is the former castle of early 20th century American sculptor, Henry Clews, and his architect wife, Marie. Not far from the site of the famed Cannes Film Festival, the Chateau overlooks the Mediterranean Sea.

The Château de La Napoule (circa 1100) is located in the historic seaside town of Mandelieu-La Napoule, France. There are shops, restaurants, bus and train service, all available just a few steps from the front gate of the chateau.

The 1960s Dance and Silent Auction is being held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the society’s Counting House Museum. Run by volunteers, the museum welcomes visitors on weekend afternoons from July through October, and year-round by appointment. The fundraiser supports a year-round program of history events for all ages.

“Good vibrations are in store for all,” said Whitney. “There will be lots of ’60s memorabilia and of course great music. Everyone is invited to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and plenty of friends.”

Tickets are $37 in advance and can be purchased online at www.oldberwick.org or at South Berwick Pharmacy, the Counting House and at all the historical society events. Or contact Nicole at making.pies@yahoo.com or 603-534-4889; or Ginny at vsasobo@comcast.net or 207-384-4039.

Accommodations at the Chateau de la Napoule are offered in the historic Italianate Villa Marguerite, former home of the Austrian Princess of Pless, located just across the street from the Chateau. Rooms are simply furnished, some with antiques. All have private baths. The winning couple will enjoy superb views and breezes from the Mediterranean Sea on their private balcony. Continental breakfast on the terrace or in the Gothic Dining Room of the Chateau is included, provided those spaces are not reserved for another event.

The winners can stroll the six-acre gardens of the Chateau or enjoy the seaside terraces. Exiting the centuries old front portal, they can take the train to Monte Carlo, shop the boutiques of Nice, or relax in the hilltop, walled villages of the feudal era (now studios of local artists and craftsmen). Museums abound in the area: the Matisse, Picasso, Chagall, Leger and Maeght Foundation, are just a few.

A local watercraft can transport visitors to the Iles de Lerin for picnic or cafe lunch. They can sightsee the historic monastery on Ile St. Margeurite or the fortress where the Man with the Iron Mask was imprisoned.

The touring day can end with a relaxing swim in the Mediterranean and a glass of wine at sunset from the room’s private balcony.